Executive Director

People and nature. That's what Conserve Lake County has always been about. Now, as we embark on our next stage of growth, we are seeking an Executive Director who can build on the success and momentum we've created over the past 18 years and lead us to higher levels of contribution and impact across our county.

Since 1995, we have served the people who share a commitment to preserving, protecting and restoring the land and water around us in Lake County Illinois. We provide the structure, education and resources to take action. And it's working. Together, we're bringing vitality back to prairies, wetlands, and woodlands.

In addition, through collaboration with the farming community, we are increasing local food production and expanding sustainable agriculture. And more and more Lake County residents are getting engaged in land conservation via our Conservation@ Home program. Participants are bringing native plant species home to their own landscapes. Collectively, we are moving toward cleaner water, richer soils, and more resilient ecosystems.

Position Overview:

Conserve Lake County (Conserve) seeks candidates for the most senior level position in our organization - Executive Director. The person we choose will be joining our strategic, service-oriented and can-do spirit organization with a strong community of members, alliances and friends. What began in 1995 under the name Liberty Prairie Conservancy has evolved to Conserve Lake County with an active countywide agenda of preserving and conserving lands that ensure healthy landscapes for people, plants and animals. Lake County Illinois is located 25 miles north of downtown Chicago. Conserve Lake County is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization. 

On a foundation of solid long-range planning, excellent board relations, a solid and high performing staff and stable financials, we want to expand our reach and impact. To do so, our new leader will be accomplished in relationship building that will yield a higher profile for Conserve Lake County's mission and work and attract more members and financial contributions - which are essential to achieving our long-range goals. Our new leader will have a visible and influential role in Lake County policies and priorities that contribute to a sustainable community. And they will help our County leaders make choices that reflect a robust appreciation and stewardship of our region's natural assets.

The Executive Director (ED) will be bold and mission driven and enable the board and staff to envision the future and a clear path forward. He/She is responsible for leading the organization and overseeing the business operations of Conserve Lake County. The ED directs and leads the staff in planning, fundraising, marketing, program delivery, advocacy and financial management to meet the mission, goals and objectives of Conserve Lake County as determined by discussion with the Board. The Executive Director is accountable to the board and facilitates their effort to govern the organization. The Board consists of 15 members who represent civic leaders, conservationists and residents. 

Responsibilities:

Outreach and Fundraising:

• Acts as lead spokesperson and representative in community marketing and fundraising efforts;
• With the associate director and Board, develops and conducts effective fundraising and outreach strategies that increase and diversify Conserve's funding sources and lead to a more stable and self-sustaining base of financial support; and
• Maintains and builds relationships with current funders through meaningful contact and reporting.

Management of Human and Financial Resources:

• Manages the internal day-to-day affairs of Conserve, including hiring, supervising, directing and evaluating the activities of full and part-time staff;
• Prepares and manages an annual budget and work plan for the organization as a whole, and work plan for each of its employees;
• Manages the day-to-day financial affairs, including the proper accounting for all funds and the preparation of financial statements;
• Provides organizational vision and leadership by effectively developing, with board and staff input, and implementing both short and long-term strategic plans; and
• Plans and implements strategies to ensure long-term financial health and sound fiscal management.

Program Development and Management:

• Initiate and oversee deployment of staff to implement Conserve's programs including land preservation, planning-advocacy-policy, outreach/education, and stewardship in accordance with approved work plans;
• Develop and manage contractual agreements for projects, with assistance from appropriate staff; and
• Administer grant funds and submit project reports, with assistance from appropriate staff.

Collaboration and Advocacy:

• Manages the external relationships of Conserve Lake County with its partners, collaborators and coalitions;
• Maintains good working relationships with other stakeholders through planning and communicating with the local homeowner groups, private landowners within the Reserve, surrounding municipalities and others; and
• Represents Conserve Lake County and advocates for the protection and greater and awareness of the organization through strategic and beneficial oral and written presentations, publications and events. 

Qualifications:

• The Executive Director will have exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills as well as strong written and oral communication abilities;
• S/he should demonstrate a track record of collaborating with stakeholder community members with integrity, forthrightness and genuineness; and
• The successful candidate will be able to think strategically and creatively and work with staff, board and colleagues to strengthen ongoing programs and identify new opportunities to deliver on Conserve's mission.

Education / Experience:

• B.A. degree and a minimum of 7 to 10+ years of relevant experience. An advanced degree is preferred;
• Proven leadership skills and recognized gravitas;
• A deep appreciation and passion for land preservation and conservation and a commitment to Conserve's mission - Strong knowledge of the environment and how it sustains the economic, social and cultural elements of a community;
• Strong record of raising money from individuals and other sources;
• Exceptional record of supporting and facilitating boards;
• Strong background in maintaining sound finances and reporting clearly;
• Exceptional staff and program management skills, deadline management, proven record of leadership and accountability; and
• An understanding of the operation and role of conservancies within a community setting is desirable.

Analytical Skills:

• Superior analytic and writing skills, including the ability to analyze and synthesize complex information into a clear, concise summary;
• Demonstrated investigative bent and informed judgment about program development and management; the ability, through questioning, informal research and prior experience, to understand the feasibility and potential impact of programs; and
• Ability to monitor and analyze impact, trends and research and translate into evidence-based strategic recommendations.

Collaboration and Communication Skills:

• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team to develop, implement, evaluate and inform long-term, programs and initiatives;
• Ability to work comfortably and develop relationships with people who hold diverse perspectives;
• Collaborative, team-oriented management style;
• Capacity to lead a small office with high volume of work; and
• Commitment to the Conserve's tradition of accountability and community focus. 

Compensation: Conserve offers a competitive compensation, commensurate with experience, and an excellent benefits package. Conserve is an equal opportunity employer and seeks to maintain the diversity of its staff.

To Apply:

Please click below: "Apply Now Online!" to submit your cover letter that speaks to how your experience meets the needs outlined above and resume.

ONLY YOUR NAME should be present in the subject line. If you do not receive a confirmation of receipt within 48 hours of submitting your application, please contact SAL Consulting, Inc. at salcon@salcon.cnc.net. 

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and interested parties are encouraged to apply early.